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Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese – Rich, Creamy & Cheesy
Introduction
Few dishes can rival the comforting indulgence of baked mac and cheese. This classic dish combines tender pasta with a rich, creamy cheese sauce, then topped with a golden, crispy layer of melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or a cozy night in, this Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese delivers the perfect balance of creaminess and crunch. Whether served as a side dish or a hearty main course, this recipe guarantees cheesy, satisfying bites in every forkful!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 2 cups elbow macaroni (or any pasta of choice)
- 1 teaspoon salt (for boiling water)
For the Cheese Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (for added depth of flavor)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheese (a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- ½ teaspoon paprika or black pepper for garnish
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously until smooth and thickened.
- Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Melt the Cheese
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Continue stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce, mixing until the pasta is fully coated.
5. Assemble and Bake
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pour the mac and cheese into a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheese mixture evenly over the top.
- Lightly dust with paprika or black pepper for a golden finish.
6. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- For a crispy top, broil for an extra 2-3 minutes, keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Let the baked mac and cheese sit for 5 minutes before serving.
- Scoop out generous portions and enjoy the gooey, cheesy goodness!
Conclusion
This Ultimate Baked Mac and Cheese is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and crispy textures. Whether served as a side dish for a holiday feast or enjoyed as a comforting meal on its own, it never disappoints. The rich cheese sauce and golden crust make every bite truly irresistible. Try this recipe today and savor the ultimate homemade mac and cheese experience! 🧀✨
